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Cinnamon Swirl Buns
Breakfast Prep

Cinnamon Swirl Buns

Prep30 min
Cook20 min
Total60 min
Serves12
Cinnamon Swirl Buns
Sweet, sticky, and utterly irresistible

I still remember the first time I made cinnamon swirl buns from scratch - the smell of sweet dough and cinnamon filled my kitchen, and the taste was like nothing I'd ever had before. Since then, I've perfected my recipe to make it easy and accessible for anyone to try at home. These buns are perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch, and the best part is that they can be made ahead of time and reheated when you're ready.

The key to making great cinnamon swirl buns is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overmix the dough. You want the dough to be soft and fluffy, but still hold its shape when you shape it into buns. I also like to use a combination of granulated and brown sugar to give the buns a rich, caramel-like flavor.

In this recipe, I'll walk you through the steps to make these delicious buns, from mixing the dough to shaping and baking them. I'll also share some tips and tricks for making them ahead of time and reheating them without losing any of the flavor or texture.

One of the things I love about this recipe is that it's perfect for a crowd. You can easily double or triple the recipe to make a big batch of buns, and they're perfect for serving at a brunch or breakfast gathering. And, because they can be made ahead of time, you can focus on other things while they're baking, like making a big pot of coffee or setting the table.

So, if you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make breakfast or brunch recipe, look no further than these cinnamon swirl buns. With their sweet and sticky glaze, soft and fluffy texture, and perfect balance of flavors, they're sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • These cinnamon swirl buns are perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch, and can be made ahead of time and reheated when you're ready.
  • The buns have a sweet and sticky glaze, and a soft and fluffy texture that's perfect for breakfast or brunch.
  • The recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for beginners or experienced bakers.
  • The buns can be customized with your favorite toppings or fillings, such as nuts, fruit, or chocolate chips.
  • The recipe makes a large batch of buns, perfect for serving a crowd or freezing for later.
  • The buns are perfect for a special occasion, such as a birthday or holiday breakfast, and can be made in advance to save time.

Why This Recipe Works

The reason these cinnamon swirl buns turn out so well is because of the combination of ingredients and techniques used. The yeast in the dough helps to give the buns a light and airy texture, while the sugar and cinnamon add a rich and sweet flavor. The use of both granulated and brown sugar also helps to create a caramel-like flavor that's perfect for breakfast or brunch.

The technique of rolling out the dough and spreading it with butter and cinnamon also helps to create a beautiful, swirly pattern on the buns. And, by using a combination of all-purpose and bread flour, we can create a dough that's both tender and strong, with a nice texture that holds up well to baking.

Finally, the glaze made with powdered sugar and milk adds a sweet and sticky finish to the buns, and helps to balance out the flavors. By using a combination of these ingredients and techniques, we can create a delicious and beautiful breakfast or brunch dish that's sure to impress.

One of the most important things to keep in mind when making these buns is to not overmix the dough. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense texture that's not very appetizing. Instead, mix the dough just until the ingredients come together in a shaggy mass, then let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flour to absorb the liquid ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delicious cinnamon swirl buns, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including flour, sugar, yeast, and cinnamon. You'll also need some unsalted butter, milk, and eggs to add moisture and richness to the dough. And, of course, you'll need some powdered sugar to make the sweet and sticky glaze that tops the buns.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality items that will give your buns the best flavor and texture. Look for unbleached, all-purpose flour that's fresh and has a good texture. Choose granulated sugar that's pure and has no additives, and use high-quality cinnamon that's fresh and fragrant.

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flourUnbleached, all-purpose flour is best for this recipe, as it has a good texture and will give the buns a light and airy texture.
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugarGranulated sugar is best for this recipe, as it will give the buns a sweet and caramel-like flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeastActive dry yeast is best for this recipe, as it will help the dough to rise and give the buns a light and airy texture.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamonGround cinnamon is best for this recipe, as it will give the buns a warm and spicy flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon saltSalt is necessary to bring out the flavors in the dough and to help the yeast to activate.
  • 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, meltedUnsalted butter is best for this recipe, as it will give the dough a rich and creamy flavor.
  • 1 cup (240ml) milkMilk is necessary to add moisture and richness to the dough, and to help the yeast to activate.
  • 2 large eggsEggs are necessary to add moisture and richness to the dough, and to help the yeast to activate.
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugarPowdered sugar is best for this recipe, as it will give the glaze a sweet and sticky texture.
  • 2 tablespoons milkMilk is necessary to thin out the glaze and to give it a smooth and creamy texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extractVanilla extract is optional, but it will give the buns a sweet and creamy flavor.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Swirl Buns

Equipment You’ll Need

Large mixing bowlMeasuring cups and spoonsElectric mixerRolling pinBaking sheetInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Buns

  1. 1
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.
  2. 2
    Add the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. 3
    Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. 4
    Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  5. 5
    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. 6
    Roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/4 inch (6mm). Spread the dough with the cinnamon sugar mixture, leaving a 1-inch (2.5cm) border around the edges.
  7. 7
    Roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long side. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
  8. 8
    Place the buns on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch (2.5cm) of space between each bun.
  9. 9
    Bake the buns for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  10. 10
    While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
  11. 11
    Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the buns and serve warm.
  12. 12
    To make the cinnamon sugar mixture, combine 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix until well combined.
  13. 13
    To check for doneness, insert an instant-read thermometer into the center of a bun. The internal temperature should be at least 190°F (88°C).

Expert Tips

  • Make sure to not overmix the dough, as this can lead to a tough and dense texture.
  • Use high-quality ingredients, such as unbleached flour and pure granulated sugar, to give the buns the best flavor and texture.
  • Let the dough rise for the full hour, as this will help the buns to have a light and airy texture.
  • Don't overbake the buns, as this can cause them to dry out and become tough.
  • Let the buns cool for a few minutes before glazing, as this will help the glaze to set and give the buns a smooth and creamy texture.
  • Experiment with different toppings or fillings, such as nuts or fruit, to give the buns a unique and delicious flavor.
  • Consider making a double batch of the buns and freezing them for later, as they will keep for up to 2 months in the freezer.
  • To reheat the buns, simply wrap them in foil and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until warm and toasted.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overmixing the dough, which can lead to a tough and dense texture.
  • Not letting the dough rise for the full hour, which can cause the buns to be dense and flat.
  • Overbaking the buns, which can cause them to dry out and become tough.
  • Not using high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the buns.
  • Not letting the buns cool before glazing, which can cause the glaze to melt and become runny.
  • Not experimenting with different toppings or fillings, which can limit the flavor and creativity of the buns.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Add nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or sesame seeds, to the dough for added texture and flavor.
  • Use different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or honey, to give the buns a unique flavor.
  • Add dried fruit, such as cranberries or cherries, to the dough for added sweetness and flavor.
  • Use different types of milk, such as almond or soy milk, to make the buns dairy-free.
  • Add a teaspoon of salt to the dough to balance out the sweetness and flavor.
  • Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, to give the buns a unique and delicious flavor.
  • Consider making a savory version of the buns, using ingredients such as cheese or herbs.

What to Serve With Cinnamon Swirl Buns

These cinnamon swirl buns are perfect for serving at a weekend breakfast or brunch, and can be paired with a variety of toppings or fillings, such as fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate chips. They're also delicious on their own, with a cup of coffee or tea, and make a great snack or dessert.

Consider serving the buns with a side of scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage, for a hearty and satisfying breakfast. Or, pair them with a fresh fruit salad or a green smoothie, for a healthier and more refreshing option.

Fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberriesWhipped cream or vanilla ice creamChocolate chips or chocolate shavingsNuts, such as walnuts or almondsCaramel sauce or honeyScrambled eggs or bacon

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

To store the buns, simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.

To freeze the buns, simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to eat them, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven.

To reheat the buns, simply wrap them in foil and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until warm and toasted. You can also reheat them in the microwave, by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and heating them for 20-30 seconds, or until warm and toasted.

Consider making a double batch of the buns and freezing them for later, as they will keep for up to 2 months in the freezer. This is a great way to have a quick and easy breakfast or snack on hand, and can be a lifesaver on busy mornings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if the dough is ready to rise?

The dough is ready to rise when it has doubled in size and has a smooth, elastic texture. You can also check the dough by poking it gently with your finger - if it springs back quickly, it's ready to rise.

What type of flour is best for this recipe?

Unbleached, all-purpose flour is best for this recipe, as it has a good texture and will give the buns a light and airy texture.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can use a different type of sugar, such as brown sugar or honey, to give the buns a unique flavor. However, keep in mind that using a different type of sugar may affect the texture and flavor of the buns.

How do I store the buns?

To store the buns, simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.

Can I make the buns ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the buns ahead of time and freeze them for later. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to eat them, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven.

How do I reheat the buns?

To reheat the buns, simply wrap them in foil and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until warm and toasted. You can also reheat them in the microwave, by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and heating them for 20-30 seconds, or until warm and toasted.

Can I customize the buns with different toppings or fillings?

Yes, you can customize the buns with different toppings or fillings, such as nuts, fruit, or chocolate chips. Simply add your desired topping or filling to the dough before rolling it out and baking it.

Are the buns suitable for a special diet?

The buns can be made suitable for a special diet, such as gluten-free or dairy-free, by substituting the flour and milk with gluten-free and dairy-free alternatives. However, keep in mind that using different ingredients may affect the texture and flavor of the buns.

The Full Recipe
Recipe Card
Cinnamon Swirl Buns

Cinnamon Swirl Buns

Make ahead cinnamon swirl buns, perfect for breakfast or brunch, with a sweet and sticky glaze, easy to reheat and store for up to 3 days

Prep30 min
Cook20 min
Total60 min
Serves12
Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (240ml) milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.
  2. Add the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/4 inch (6mm). Spread the dough with the cinnamon sugar mixture, leaving a 1-inch (2.5cm) border around the edges.
  7. Roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long side. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
  8. Place the buns on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch (2.5cm) of space between each bun.
  9. Bake the buns for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  10. While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
  11. Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the buns and serve warm.
  12. To make the cinnamon sugar mixture, combine 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix until well combined.
  13. To check for doneness, insert an instant-read thermometer into the center of a bun. The internal temperature should be at least 190°F (88°C).

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)

250Calories
4gProtein
35gCarbs
10gFat